Delahunt Cosponsors Base Development Bill

05/11/2009
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S Rep. Bill Delahunt announced his co-sponsorship of legislation aimed at easing the redevelopment of closed military bases.

“In these difficult economic times, we need to find ways to ease the financial burden of redeveloping former military bases,” said Delahunt. “This bill will give added relief and assistance to help local communities, developers and redevelopment authorities with projects and clean-ups stalled due to the current economic climate.”  

The Defense Communities Assistance Act (HR 2295)-- cosponsored by Rep. Sam Farr (D-CA), Kay Granger (R-Texas), and Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) -- includes several other provisions to enhance cooperation between communities and the Department of Defense.

Included in the legislation is the no-cost Economic Development Conveyance (EDC). This tool, which transfers land to local control at no expense, was once the primary means of property conveyance following a base closure.  However, the process is now only available at the discretion of the Secretary of Defense and has not been used for years.

Additional provisions of the legislation include:

Department of Defense may swap excess property for other land or construction services to avoid encroachment at active military bases.

A 10-year extension for military agencies to contract with local governments for municipal services on installations.

Department of Defense must reimburse states for their mandatory oversight of base cleanup activities.

Clarifies that costs associated with toxic and hazardous cleanup are the responsibility of the Department of Defense.

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